The museum complex is situated on a 3-acre arboretum and includes: 1) An 1857 Italianate home built by Oscar Taylor. This home was the social center of early Freeport and may have been a stop on the Underground Railroad. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 2) The Millerburg schoolhouse, furnished to depict rural school life circa 1920. 3) The Industry Museum which highlights the rich manufacturing heritage of Stephenson County including the Henney Company, Stover, W.T. Rawleigh and more. 4) The Arcade Toy Museum which showcases the world’s largest exhibit of Arcade cast-iron toys made in Freeport by Arcade Manufacturing as well as other toys manufactured in Freeport including Structo and Realistic. 5) An authentic 1840s log cabin homestead built by Irish immigrants. Open Wednesday thru Sunday, Noon to 4pm. Guided Tours only; last tour starts at 3pm. Group tours may be scheduled by appointment. Adults $8 Children 6 and above $4

Enjoy the natural wonders of the Pecatonica River, Stephenson County's water trail, as is meanders nearly 60 miles through undisturbed Midwestern beauty. Access the river at McNeil's Damascus Landing which offers ample parking, a picnic area, fire pit and charcoal grills, portable toilet, 10' x 20' floating dock and canoe/kayak and concrete boat launch with access docking. Camping at the site is available for canoe, kayaks and boaters. Reservations required.

This park provides a quiet scenic area ideal for family reunions and group gatherings. A large and a small shelter house, softball diamond, volleyball and basketball courts, playground, and wooded area are offered. A concession stand is open during softball season.

Items on display in this local town museum include a mill stone, ox yoke, McConnell telephone switchboard, and other items relating to the history of McConnell and Waddams Township. There is a large collection of family histories, obituaries, and genealogical materials. Special activities and exhibits are planned for each of the open dates.

This museum, operated by the Stephenson County Antique Engine Club, which also operates the Silver Creek and Stephenson Railroad, offers 20 rooms of early Americana. Exhibts include 500 pieces of crockery, dolls, a recreated schoolroom and kitchen, art exhibits, quilts, tools and agricultural equipment, and many other historical exhibits. Also on the grounds is a display of antique machinery and an exhibit of Henny Motor Company vehicles which were manufactured in Freeport. Plus visitors can view the operating Cooper-Corliss engine, a giant 130-ton steam engine with a 25 foot flywheel which originally operated a rolling mill in a zinc plant. Special exhibits and events are featured throughout the year. Open: May thru October on selected holidays and weekends: 11 am - 4 pm.

Along the banks of the mighty Richland Creek, the first settlers founded the Village of Orangeville in 1851. Over the years, the town has always been a special place "where the women are fair, the men are strong and there's a story to be told around every corner." In the Mighty Richland Players Dessert Theater, those fair and strong will treat attendees to a great dessert and a humorous story with a smile and a wink. Performances are at the Mighty Richland Players Theater, an 1877 Italianate Victorian building listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Theater season is March through September .

The Lena Historical Museum tells the history of Lena and the surrounding area, with galleries focusing on various historical topics. Highlights include a Civil War regimental flag and an extensive clothing collection. Also on the grounds are a summer kitchen, the first log schoolhouse built in Lena, an Illinois Central Railroad caboose, a general store, a recreated chapel, and a barn filled with antique vehicles and farm tools. Open: Saturday: 1 pm - 4 pm; or by appointment.

This park honors all of the veterans from Stephenson County. It contains large era stones from all conflicts. Benches surround concrete walkways, and a large brick memorial garden if featured. A Gold Star Family Memorial is dedicated to all who gave given their lives for our freedoms. Open: Daily: Dawn to Dusk.

This monument honors William "Tutty" Baker, the founder of Freeport. Tutty came to this area, which was home to the Winnebago Indians, in 1835 and built a trading post along the banks of the Pecatonica River, offering travelers free ferry rides.

The Van Raden Memorial Park features Lake Baalton, a three acre man-made lake stocked with bass, crappie, blue gill and catfish. A small shelter and playground area are also offered. A Veterans Memorial honoring all German Valley area service men and women, past or present is at the park

Sawmill and custom furniture. Pure maple products including maple syrup, maple candy, maple cream and maple sugar. Tours of the sugar bush and sugar shack are available in season (Feb-Mar) by prior appointment.

All aboard the antique steam train as a 36 ton 1912 Heisler steam locomotive pulls three cabooses and two passenger flat cars for a four mile ride through farmland and across a bridge 30 feet above Yellow Creek and view the fireworks in the night sky from the train. Purchase your ticket at the Silver Creek Depot, a turn-of-the-century replica filled with railroad artifacts. Browse for novelties in the Freight House and visit the Silver Creek Museum which offers 25 rooms of early Americana, a display of antique machinery, Henney Motor Company vehicles which were manufactured in Freeport, and the operating Cooper-Corliss engine, a giant 130 ton steam engine. Sandwiches, drinks and deserts served at the Museum. Train: Adults: $7; Children Under 12: $3; Cab Rides: $15; Museum: Adults: $4; Children Under 12: Free.

This residential district includes original Freeport and the city's first street, Monterey, and was later known as the "Gold Coast". Points of interest include Freeport's oldest house (built in 1838), the childhood home of famed Hollywood gossip columnist Louella Parsons, a monument honoring Freeport's founder, William "Tutty" Baker, and the Van Buren Bridge, built in 1885 of wrought iron.

They facilitate retreats for individuals and small groups seeking renewed relationships with God and each other. Come away by yourselves to a quiet place and rest a while. The conference center is approximately 100 miles west of Chicago but a world away from the hustle and worries of your busy lives.

Lions Park, at over 20 acres, features Splash Land Family Aquatic Center with a 180' waterslide, zero depth entry, many shade shelters, wet sand play area, water features and drop slide. The Splash Land Mini-Golf offers one of the nicest 18 hole miniature golf courses in the Midwest. It has over 275 plant varieties, 4000+ square feet of water areas, three waterfalls and challenges that the entire family will enjoy. The course is ADA compliant. Quench your thirst and your appetite at the Splash Land Food Court. Full restaurant offering sandwiches to soft serve and smoothies to salads - a true family food court. The park also offers picnic and playground areas, flower gardens, shelter house, a concession stand, volleyball and basketball courts, lighted ball diamond, batting cages and restrooms. A 110x110' ice rink is availabe in season.

Hickory Hill Lodging is located down a wooded lane off of Payne Road, the gateway to Carroll County in Northwestern Illinois. Just minutes from the Lake Carroll Golf Course and the fine dining and relaxation in Lake Carroll.

This scenic 13-mile trail for hiking and biking through the rolling hill of northwest Illinois offers both history and nature. The trail, as it follows county and township roads, is partially paved. Attractions include early pioneer sites, one of the highest natural points in the state, and also Blackhawk war sites. Trail maps are available at the Lena Community Park District Office. For those who complete the trail, trail patches and medals are available for purchase.

All aboard the antique steam train as a 36 ton, 1912 Heisler steam locomotive pulls three cabooses, and two passenger flatcars for a four mile ride through farmlands and across a bridge 30 feet above Yellow Creek. Purchase your ticket at the Silver Creek Depot, a turn-of-the-century replica filled with railroad artifacts. Browse for novelties in the Freight House and visit the Silvercreek Museum which offers 25 rooms of early Americana, a display of antique machinery, Henney Motor Company vehicles which were manufactured in Freeport, and the operating Cooper-Corliss engine, a giant 130 ton steam engine. The Silvercreek Museum will be serving sandwiches and deserts. Train: Adults: $7; Children under 12: $3; Cab Rides available inquire at the Depot Freight House. Museum: Adults: $4; Children under 12: Free.

From huevos con chorizo and the best chimichangas around to a Friday night fish fry, Amigos is the place for a great Mexican or American meal. Breakfast served anytime. Credit Cards accepted. Open: Sunday: 8 am - 2 pm; Monday thru Saturday: 8 am - 9 pm.

Skaters of all skill levels will enjoy the half and quarter pipes, pyramid, "roller coaster" and kink rails on the 750 square foot skate pad. The skate park is also open to bikes. Other attractions include a playground, sheltered picnic area, sand volleyball court, basketball court and ten fitness stations along a .5 mile blacktop walking path. Open: Dawn to Dusk.

Located in north central Illinois. The farm dates back five generations to the owner's great-great grandparents who settled here in 1845, cleared the land, and built a log cabin. This charming farmhouse has been in the owner's family for five generations and stands hidden in the pine trees just waiting to offer guests a chance to experience the 1900's decor. Chat in the living room, or relax on the front porch swing as you experience the country atmosphere. Open April — October.

This event features antique two cylinder and new generation tractors plus old time machinery, food, conversation, and good fun. Come visit with the owners of these tractors and learn why they love these machines. Food, conversation, crafts, and a good time for all ages.

A full-service florist and lawn and garden center with a complete line of nursery stock, thirteen greenhouses filled with annuals, over 5,000 perennials, house plants, silk arrangements, and in-store antiques.

AJ's Lena Maid Meats is a complete meat processing company and retail sales outlet founded over 50 years ago. The high quality locally raised meats are cut the way you want with many specialty cured meats and sausge products as well as local cheeses, unique grocery items, gift boxes, party trays, custom and wild game processing and beef and pork sides and quarters.

The Corner Tap is a family friendly atmosphere conveniently located halfway between Freeport, IL and Galena, IL in beautiful downtown Stockton, Illinois. Homemade pizza, appetizers, sandwiches, soup and much more! Great beer selection, including darks and imports. Outdoor beer garden.

Quality embroidery, screen printing and promotional items for clubs, organizations and schools. Freeport shirts in stock from youth 2-4 to adult 3X, plus sweatshirts, hats and polos made to order. With their 30 plus years of experience, “We will put your name and logo where it belongs – in front of your customers and friends each and every day!”.Open: Tuesday thru Friday: 10 am to 3 pm

All aboard the antique steam train as a 35 ton 1912 Heisler steam locomotive pulls three cabooses, including an antique red caboose, and two passenger flatcars for a four mile ride through farmlands and across a bridge 30 feet above Yellow Creek. Puschase your ticket at the Silver Creek Depot, and browse for novelties in the Freight House. Visit the Silver Creek Museum which offers 25 rooms of early Americana, Henney Motor Company vehicles, which were manufactured in Freeport, and the operating Cooper-Corliss engine, a giant 130 ton steam engine. Food will be available at the Museum.

Enjoy this artsy alternative for discriminating diners with a fun attitude and great food including homemade soups, signature salads, and their own pretzel burger. Plus enjoy the Flashback Dance Club open from 9 pm to 1 am. Full bar, carryout, catering service, children’s menu, entertainment, and outdoor dining. Closed Sundays and Mondays Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner: under $10.00. Credit Cards Accepted

This clean and comfortable facility at the beautiful 18-hole Wolf Hollow Golf Course features a full bar and one of the best short-order menus and friendliest staffs in the region. Specialties include hamburgers, hot dogs, tenderloins, brats, pizzas, and more. Carryout, full bar. Banquet facilities for 130. Breakfast: under $5.00; Lunch and Dinner: under $10.00. Credit Cards Accepted

At Country Inn and Suites there is one goal - to make you feel at home. They promise to offer caring, consistent and comfortable service to ensure a relaxing enjoyable stay. They offer a complimentary Be Our Guest Breakfast, free wireless high speed internet access, Club Carlson Reward program, indoor pool and whirlpool and a fitness center. These are just a few of the exceptional amenities they offer every guest. The hotel has been voted "Best in the Region" for the past 15 years in a row. It offers consistency you can count on at just the right price. Senior discount, American Express, Diners Club, Discover, MasterCard and Visa. Rates: $99.00 to $169.00.

A small, family owned and operated butcher shop that has been in business in Freeport since 1929 - Celebrating over 80 years of home-raised beef and pork. Enjoy individual cuts, quarters and sides. Locally raised lamb, custom butchering and deer processing.

Cheese direct from local factories in Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin. Enjoy over 55 varieties of cheese! Also a variety of deli meats, sausage, crackers, snacks and other goodies. Plus meat and cheese sandwiches, mustards, and honey from local bee keepers. Cedar Crest Ice Cream is available in sugar, waffle or cake cones, cup/bowl, shake, sundae or malt. Cheese can be shipped across the United States. At Christmas, they can prepare a beautiful cheese box or gift certificates for the holidays.Open: Sunday: 11 am to 5 pm; Monday thru Friday: 10 am to 6 pm; Saturday: 9 am to 5 pm (Hours may vary in winter.)

Casual dining in a unique setting. Original 1900's flooring, tin ceiling and cabinets remain from the old hardware store which was located in what is now the Inn. Homemade pizza and pie, plus daily specials. Full bar, reservations recommended for large groups. Banquet facilities for 30.

Some of the finest gardens in the Freeport area are opened for touring. The gardeners generously present their creative efforts for the pleasure of the public. Walk through the gardens and enjoy the colorful scenery. Plus a silent auction and a large variety of garden art items will be offered at one garden. Gardeners will be on site to answer questions and to talk about plants and their gardens.

This historic and charming hotel is located in the heart of Historic Downtown Freeport. It features the Main Street Bistro, the perfect spot to enjoy a great meal, a refreshing drink in a sophisticated atmosphere ideal for mixing, mingling, and enjoying life. The 70 spacious guest rooms and 2 suites feature complimentary hi-speed wireless internet access, High Definition TV with pay-per view movies. Refrigerators and microwaves available upon request. Guest also have access to the hotel's state of the art fitness center, indoor swimming pool, and the complimentary hot continental breakfast which features over 15 items daily. Non-smoking rooms are available. The Hampton Inn is part of the Hilton Honors preferred guest program. Rates: $89 to $149.

Taylor Park was originally a trotting-horse track and gives this park its oval shape and flat terrain. There are picnic areas shelters, playground areas, a three-diamond lighted softball complex, a tennis court, a basketball court, and a sand volleyball court. A concession stand is open during softball season.

Frank Jewelers in downtown Freeport is the destination for diamonds, distinctive jewelry and fine gifts. Diamonds from Natalie K, IDDEAL Diamonds, Everlon, Love Story, Forever 10, and the new Ideal2 Square-Cut Hearts and Arrows diamond – a Frank Jewelers exclusive – are offered in a relaxing atmosphere where guests can find style, brilliance and excellent value each and every day. There is even a Private Viewing Gallery – the ideal, completely private setting for choosing jewelry perfect for you. Frank Jewelers Pandora Shop-in-Shop offers the internationally acclaimed Pandora charms, bracelets, necklaces and earrings – with millions of personalized combinations. You’ll also find distinctive jewelry from designers Belle Etoile, Angelica, Endless Jewelry, Rhythm of Love, LeVian, as well as an impressive collection of Citizen Signature, Bulova, Accutron, Wittnauer and SEIKO fine timepieces and wall clocks. Frank Jewelers Swarovski gallery is the area’s most extensive and features many limited edition pieces. Frank Jewelers in-store design and repair department features the artistry of a Master Goldsmith who can customize an original piece of jewelry that fits your personality and budget, from traditional to fashion forward. They’ll help you create jewelry that is as unique as you are.

This is a warm, inviting and friendly place with a relaxed but upscale atmosphere. Only the highest quality freshly roasted specialty coffees from around the word are used. They also offer a full menu of espresso beverages, specialty tea, hot chocolate, steamers, fruit smoothies and more. Plus they have a wonderful selection of pastries and baked goods. Panini sandwiches and soup are served daily for lunch. The breakfast menu includes breakfast panini, quiche, pastries, muffins, scones and other selections. Free wireless internet access is available. Drive-up window, carryout.

The Mill is nestled among the hills of Northern Illinois, on the way to Galena. Large furniture showroom, including flooring, bedding and accessories. Full-service consultants on staff. A nice drive for "nice" furniture.